Bringing home a new puppy is one of the most joyful things that can happen for your family. There’s nothing like a cute and wiggling puppy to give you a regular dose of the happiest vibes ever! However, apart from the joy and laughter, you can get, it’s also a lot of responsibility for you, as the owner, to take care of your furbaby.

One of the most important steps to take to ensure that you and your puppy can share a long, happy life together is to potty train him at the right time and place. You don’t want to deal with a dog that regularly soils your home and furniture—which is why dog training is necessary for a good relationship!

Read on for a simple guide on how to successfully potty train your puppy.

Puppy Potty Training Timeline

Puppy potty training should begin when he is between 3-4 months old. Most puppies gain complete bladder control when they’re between 4-6 months old. Before then, a lot of your life as a puppy owner will revolve around your puppy’s bladder and tummy.

The rule of thumb is that the number of hours a puppy can hold his bladder = age in months + 1. So a two-month-old puppy will be able to hold it for three hours. Newborn puppies, on the other hand, usually need to pee within 10 to 30 minutes of drinking water. These are the numbers you need to keep in mind as you begin potty training!

Basic Potty Training Methods

1. Crate Training

Crate training is effective because dogs don’t like to soil their beds. Keeping your puppy in a crate for extended periods will encourage him to control his bladder. It’s essential to take him to his favourite spot outside to pee before and after crate time. During periods where you can’t watch over your puppy, place him in a crate. Don’t put any food or water in the crate with him; just one or two toys should be enough to keep him occupied.

Make sure the crate is large enough to accommodate your puppy as well. The best choice would be to buy a cage that can fit him as an adult and use a divider panel to limit his space while it’s still a puppy.

2. Paper Training

The most popular puppy potty training method is through puppy pads. Pretreated pads are scented with chemicals that attract puppies to do their business on them. When you can see that your puppy needs to relieve himself, carry him over to the pad and encourage him to go there!

Once he is consistently using the pads indoors, slowly transition him to a spot outside your house. Finally, your puppy will not need pads anymore and will be able to eliminate waste in just one designated area outside.

3. Constant Supervision

If you spend a lot of time at home and you can watch your puppy consistently, you can bring your puppy outside every time he shows signs of needing to go. Bring him to the designated place and praise him when he finishes. This will slowly teach him where to go and when.

Other Potty Training Reminders

No matter what methods you use, one of the most important things to remember is that dogs respond to positive reinforcement. Scolding or yelling at your puppy for peeing on your carpet will not teach him anything but to fear you!

The most effective way to train your dog to do anything is to heap him with praise whenever he does something right. Be as effusive as you can every time he pees or poops in the right place. Giving him love and treats will teach him to do the right thing over and over without being told.

Conclusion

Having a puppy at home is fun and wonderful—but you also have to instill discipline and good habits in him. No matter what potty training method you choose from the ones listed, make sure to be as patient and as loving as possible. The best way to teach a dog what to do is to praise them constantly. Soon enough, he will be doing his business outside all on his own!

Are you looking for dog training services in Brandon, Manitoba? The Paw Resort & Wellness Centre is here for you. Puppy principles, Fun Fundamentals, Intermediate and advanced, Enrichment, Freestyle, Focus and Control, and Private sessions are all available with our world-class team of trainers. We also offer accommodation, play care, and dog grooming services. Your pet’s comfort is our priority. Contact us today!